A "Hallmark Moment" can be yours on Dec. 18 if you turn out to the Lyle Park Place at 10 a.m. and help decorate the pavilion for the arrival of Santa! Bring the whole family and join in the fun -- and later that evening return around 6 to 6:30 to witness the excitement of not only seeing your achievement in the dark but also hearing the trumpeted arrival of the sirens and seeing the beautifully decorated fire trucks that escort Santa to the Activity Center. Hot cocoa will be on hand to warm the tummy as well as the spirit.

The Sundowners RV Club met for its Christmas Party and monthly dinner at the Lyle Grange with jubilation and camaraderie that only dear old friends can experience. After the main course was supplied by the club and the members brought the trimmings to the "semi-potluck" dinner, tables were cleared and games were brought out. Many stayed and shared the warm companionship of their peers.

The OLESS club hosted a "Music and Dance" afternoon at the Lyle Activity Center on Sunday. Many residents accepted the invitation and joined in at either listening or dancing to good old country music played by the local group called "Martin and Friends." It was a great afternoon that lifted the stress and anxiety this season can bring.

Lyle Community Council will host representatives from both the Washington Department of Transportation (speaking on safety issues on Highway 14) and the Economic Development (explaining why EDA grants have been suspended) on Monday, Dec. 27, at 7 p.m. at the Lyle Lion's Club.

With all the shoppers out and about, attending parties and get-togethers all month, it is no wonder that the real meaning of Christmas gets lost in the shuffle. Without getting all gushy or pious, let's try to find a middle ground and concentrate on just being kind to one another and compassionate to those less fortunate than ourselves. It doesn't have to be monetary. A word, a nod or a smile can do wonders to boost the spirits of another. And personally, I like to greet as many as possible with a warm and cheery, "Merry Christmas!"

Whatever one possesses becomes of double value when we have the opportunity of sharing it with others. Bouilly